This weekend I am playing NiOh 3. I’m approximately a quarter of the way through with 13-hours of playtime. My experience has been sublime thus far. If you are not a fan of souls-like then this game won’t move the needle. However, if you’re a fan of this genre, and generally hardcore action game with robust combat, then welcome aboard.
This latest entry is probably the most accessible because of the approach in its difficulty. It’s achieved by open world exploration, and giving always giving you something to indulge. If you’re having trouble with a group of enemies, or an optional boss, simply go somewhere else. There is a strong essence of player agency and freedom, providing you the feeling that you aren’t ever stuck. It’s comparable to Elden Ring in that regard.
As we all know, this genre is typically associated with difficulty; NiOh 3 is no exception, but it’s hardly unbearable. There were a few boss encounters where I questioned my ability to defeat them, but once I understood the mechanics, the correct time to switch fighting styles (samurai and ninja), and deflecting, fights became manageable. One boss I encountered, Kamaitchi, which I believe is optional, was frantic, engaging, and incredibly unique with some of its movements. It’s easily one of my favorite throughout the entire souls-like games on the market.
The combat is the real star of the show—a staple in this franchise. It’s arguably better than any souls-like, perhaps even superior to From Software games. There is so much variety on play, and the amount creative builds feel limitless. In the prior two games you acquired various weapon types, each with their own stance and skill trees to master. That core element is still present, but rather than being a samurai you can switch to a Ninja on the fly. In doing so, there is no Ki pulse or different stances; instead, you’re more versatile, nimble, quicker to dodge, and can use various magic abilities in addition to numerous weapons. It’s a fun mechanic that is seamlessly integrated in the enemies and bosses you fight, making you to have quick reflexes.
One complaint I’ve had in every NiOh game is the copious amounts of loot. It really can be exhausting trying to manage everything. Whilst it’s still prevalent, there are accessibility options to make life easier. You can adjust your settings so anything that you pick up can be sold, or disassembled from common, uncommon, legendary, and rare. You also get the choice to choose between common, uncommon, rare, and legendary, that way you won’t be overwhelmed (more than you have to). This helps ease the monotonous of pouring through lists and lists of what to keep or not.
All in all, NiOh 3 seems to be the culmination of all its trademarks, and a new beginning for the franchise. It builds upon its foundation, sharpening what sets it apart from its contemporaries, and tries something different. There may be a couple of stumbles along the way, but nothing too bad to negate the amount of positives the game offers. This will more than likely be in the GoTY discussion, and it will be justified. In my opinion, this is Team Ninja/Koei Tecmo’s best game yet.
I’ve yet to play this entry, but I think I’ll pick it up during a deep sale. I probably won’t finish it; these games are typically over saturated, but if it holds my attention for a while then I’ll be pleased.
I’m very curious about Duskbloods. It has all the typical traits of a From Soft game, but it being similar to Nightrein, and exclusively on Switch, is concerning. That said, I have faith in them—they very rarely disappoint. I also can’t wait to have Elden Ring on the go.
I’m glad I canceled my preorder, but it’s disappoint to see a successful franchise have a huge miss, when all of their games are typically great. I’ll stick with the original.
ToTK is one of my all time favorite games, but I would love to see a more traditional approach, though that is highly unlikely. Maybe the combat will be revamped, and providing neat skill sets and special moves. That said, we always seem to have this conversation — how can the next Zelda game be better than the last? It always seems like an impossible feat because we aren’t involved in the creative process, but it always surpasses everyone’s expectations. I don’t think we need to worry about the direction the games will go.
I’ve kind of been in a funk, so I think I’m going to take a brief hiatus from gaming until Resident Evil Requiem releases, or perhaps Yakuza 3 Kiwami, if the reviews are solid. I sincerely haven’t gone longer than a singular day playing something for over five years, but I think it’ll be good to step away.
I have, however, been reading a lot more than usual — I do it often, but as of late I’m more ferociously. My wife convinced me to read the Fourth Wing series. I was skeptical because, as much as I love fantasy, the steamy romance scenes aren’t my cup of tea, so I went in expecting to dislike the book(s). Several days later, I finished all three books. They were quite incredible. I’m now reading The Will of the Many by James Islington, and it’s fantastic. The world building has been incredible, and the setting has my imagination running wild.
This is one of the games I’ve been wanting to come to Switch 2 for a long time. I’m glad it finally is making its way — I’ll be double dipping for sure, especially since I haven’t played the DLC yet.
It’s kind of expected. Oblivion, Skyrim, and Fallout are essentially “old”. The people who want those games already have them considering how long they have been out. Indy, on the other hand, is new and fresh; they need to sell as many copies as possible. I understand that it sucks and doesn’t make much sense, but it is what it is.
If I had to rate this direct, it would be a B+, if not an A (or, a 9/10). Speaking only on the games that were shown rather than wasn’t, there was a huge lineup of games. Moreover, they are all releasing fairly soon: this spring and summer. There were no games that were slated for 2027. The majority of the games were for the first half of the year, and in that we are receiving FF7 Rebirth, Tales of Arise (a game not many is discussing but it’s worth mentioning - it’s great), Indiana Jones, Oblivion Remastered, Fallout 4, Orbitals, and more.
Sure, I was a tad disappointed by the lack of other games rumored to be coming to the console, or factually releasing, such as Elden Ring, Clair Obscur, Metaphor, and Mina The Hollower. I wish there were some news on those games. With that said, it’s almost all but certain those games will be coming, so for what the Partner Showcase presented, it was fantastic.
Of course, we are also getting RE Requiem and Pragmata day one, whilst also having FF7Remake, Dragon Quest 7, Yakuza 3, Caves of Qud, already released, or will be in a week. That goes to show me that developers are starting to see Switch 2’s true potential without compromising. And yes, this showcase was essentially about ports. I understand the dismay against that — I, too, want new games — but it’s a good indication where the mindset of developers are. We are going to start getting more day one releases in the future.
This will be a day one purchase for me. I think Remake was very well optimized, and if the trailer that was shown today as truly from the Switch 2 version, it appears to be following the same track.
I’ve been tempted to play this on the PS5 for a long time, but I think I’ll wait until the Switch 2 version releases. I hear it’s a solid game, though I’m not familiar with the IP.
This was an announcement that pleasantly surprised me. I think I’ll buy this collection today, and mess around with it today at work on my lunch break.
I can’t wait for this one. It seems like a such unique blend of gameplay mechanics. And lately, Capcom just doesn’t miss, so I’m looking forward to playing this. I’m not much of a demo person, but I’ll probably check that out too!
I’d like to see: Metaphor ReFantazio, Clair Obscur, Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order/Survivor, Mina The Hollower, Elden Ring, FF7 Rebirth, and maybe a Switch 2 update for Kingdom Come Deliverance.
Bummer. This would have been my first real Borderlands game. I played 1 & 2 briefly as a teen when they first released, but I never stayed with them. I suppose I could check it out on the PS5, but I’d much prefer portable play.
Glad to hear the game turned out just as good as I expected. I’m not distraught about the cut content, and from everything I’ve read, the game isn’t worse off for it. I’m looking forward to playing it in a couple of days.
I’ve only played MIO although I own Dispatch. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with it, but I stopped 3/4th of the way through due to its difficulty and how unbalanced the game felt despite the assist options. I found Silksong easier and more balanced, and I 100%’ed that game.
Dragon Quest 7 and Resident Evil Requiem are day one purchases for me. I am considering Yakuza 3 so long as the game receives a patch for its graphics on day one like the developers have stated.
I’m excited for quite a bit of games. In no particular order, Dragon Quest 7, Mina The Hollower, Pragmata, Fire Emblem Fortune’s Weave, The Adventures of Elliot, and I’m going to assume FF7 Rebirth and Metaphor ReFantazio.
I don’t have much of an update from last weekend. I’m still playing Final Fantasy 7 Remake for the Switch 2. I’m approximately 65% through the story and absolutely enthralled despite beating the game multiple times on PS4/5. In fact, I may replay the game on PlayStation and get the platinum trophy since SqE essentially updated the game with “God mode” availability.
I have to say, though, after completing Rebirth and having more perspective on the story direction, it makes the first game even better.m due to its contextual gravity. You pick up subtle story beats, and character interaction and dialogue makes more sense. I think it is an impressive feat to have a sequel — Rebirth — that makes its predecessor —Remake — even better.
I can’t wait to see how Rebirth performs on the Switch 2. It’s remarkable how well optimized the Remake is, and how smooth the gameplay feels even though the frame-rate dips in a few cinematics. I’m not sure how it’s going to be pulled off considering how much larger it will be.
All of that said, these games feel tailored made for handheld and portability. I can’t imagine playing it any other way. It draws out a sense nostalgia, being a kid, staying up late when school was canceled because of snow and ice, and being a foot away from the television, my eyes glued to the screen. It’s the same reason why I have an affinity with Final Fantasy Tactics Advance for the GBA. It feels personal; intimate, and that’s when a franchise is elevated to GOAT status.
It’s not my type of game and I don’t understand the appeal, but there is clearly an obvious fan base and I’m happy they get a new entry in the franchise.
@Haruki_NLI Exactly. It’s also a few weeks in January. People are freaking out as if nothing new is coming out for the console. Sure, the first party output may not be strong, but we just got FF7Remake, about to get Dragon Quest 7, Resident Evil Requiem, and Pragmata. To say the console is lacking is quite the ridiculous statement, particularly since we are also supposed to get a new Fire Emblem game this year.
I know my comment is going to be off topic, but I wanted to say that Ball x Pit got updated today with its new content. I haven’t seen any sites mention it even though it’s a popular game.
On this side of things, I am glad to see this game get another update. I’m strongly considering buying it.
@Teksette Dang! Stay safe out there! And yeah, I was somehow magically blessed to have the entire weekend off work, and Monday and Tuesday as well. That never happens, but I’m grateful for it!
I picked up MIO: Memories In Orbit since it has been getting great reviews. I have to say, the reviews are in the mark — this game is awesome, but hard as hell.
I find the game to be quite excellent. There is a feeling of minimalism in a gorgeous, cell-shaded world. There are some moments with the soundtrack that brings me back to how I felt playing Death Stranding 1 & 2 because of how quiet it can be. That is an odd comparison, but very fitting.
The environments are all unique, although very similar to Hollow Knight and the Ori games. While it is familiar, it provides its own spin on how to traverse the world, and the dangers it presents. Speaking of, the platforming can be demanding, but the satisfaction you obtain by completing an obstacle is so rewarding. Just be prepared for a lot of trial and error.
The sense of progression is paced very well. There is always a stream of new abilities, with a plethora of combat modifiers and enhancements that can help during tough situations. Some of the unmissable abilities do seem useless, particularly the dodge mechanic. It essentially turns you invisible for a short period of time, but since most enemies are robotic in nature, there attacks are delayed and will hit you once you finish the dodge.
There are two issues I have with the game. Save points are very sparse, and the idea of backtracking can be really frustrating. You can easily die in two hits, and you’re going to because you’ll encounter new enemies with unique skill sets that you’re unlikely to know at the start. It’s basically trial by fire. You’ll eventually unlock shortcuts and abilities - a trope with the genre - but even then it can be a hassle.
The other quibble I have, albeit minor, are the boss fights and enemies. They are challenging, but not too demanding. However, they do tend to be repetitive in their aesthetic design. The fights themselves are varied, but when they tend to look the same they all feel disjointed. There are some enemies and bosses that have a big difficult spike — I’m looking at you Atmos — and it can be irritating where they spawn.
With that said, the accessibility options are fantastic. I’ve yet to use them, but they do assimilate problems where people struggle during difficult games such as Silksong. For example, there is an assist option that allows you to regain one health node when standing still. These won’t stack, so it’s a little reprieve from automatic death. Eroded Bosses will make boss fights weaker upon each failed attempt. If you combine that with some of the combat modifiers, it will help immensely.
Overall, I find MIO: Memories In Orbit to be a standout indie for the beginning of 2026.
I’m also playing Final Fantasy 7 Remake for the Switch 2. I’ve beaten this game three times for the PS4 & PS5, but I couldn’t resist the option for portability. I have been playing the game exclusively in handheld, and the game looks and runs silky smooth, with frame rate only dipping periodically in cutscenes. It feels like a dream to have a game like this I can take on the go.
FF7R on Switch 1 is a great port, seemingly, and $40.00 is a really good deal for the quality of the title. It just goes to show that big budget games can work given the time and care. Cyberpunk 2077 and now this is a perfect example.
Do I own this game on PS4 & PS5? Yes. Am I buying it for Switch 2 and plan on beating the game for the 4th time? Absolutely. This was a great review! I’m beyond excited — and playing this portably is a dream come true.
Comments 773
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (14th February)
This weekend I am playing NiOh 3. I’m approximately a quarter of the way through with 13-hours of playtime. My experience has been sublime thus far. If you are not a fan of souls-like then this game won’t move the needle. However, if you’re a fan of this genre, and generally hardcore action game with robust combat, then welcome aboard.
This latest entry is probably the most accessible because of the approach in its difficulty. It’s achieved by open world exploration, and giving always giving you something to indulge. If you’re having trouble with a group of enemies, or an optional boss, simply go somewhere else. There is a strong essence of player agency and freedom, providing you the feeling that you aren’t ever stuck. It’s comparable to Elden Ring in that regard.
As we all know, this genre is typically associated with difficulty; NiOh 3 is no exception, but it’s hardly unbearable. There were a few boss encounters where I questioned my ability to defeat them, but once I understood the mechanics, the correct time to switch fighting styles (samurai and ninja), and deflecting, fights became manageable. One boss I encountered, Kamaitchi, which I believe is optional, was frantic, engaging, and incredibly unique with some of its movements. It’s easily one of my favorite throughout the entire souls-like games on the market.
The combat is the real star of the show—a staple in this franchise. It’s arguably better than any souls-like, perhaps even superior to From Software games. There is so much variety on play, and the amount creative builds feel limitless. In the prior two games you acquired various weapon types, each with their own stance and skill trees to master. That core element is still present, but rather than being a samurai you can switch to a Ninja on the fly. In doing so, there is no Ki pulse or different stances; instead, you’re more versatile, nimble, quicker to dodge, and can use various magic abilities in addition to numerous weapons. It’s a fun mechanic that is seamlessly integrated in the enemies and bosses you fight, making you to have quick reflexes.
One complaint I’ve had in every NiOh game is the copious amounts of loot. It really can be exhausting trying to manage everything. Whilst it’s still prevalent, there are accessibility options to make life easier. You can adjust your settings so anything that you pick up can be sold, or disassembled from common, uncommon, legendary, and rare. You also get the choice to choose between common, uncommon, rare, and legendary, that way you won’t be overwhelmed (more than you have to). This helps ease the monotonous of pouring through lists and lists of what to keep or not.
All in all, NiOh 3 seems to be the culmination of all its trademarks, and a new beginning for the franchise. It builds upon its foundation, sharpening what sets it apart from its contemporaries, and tries something different. There may be a couple of stumbles along the way, but nothing too bad to negate the amount of positives the game offers. This will more than likely be in the GoTY discussion, and it will be justified. In my opinion, this is Team Ninja/Koei Tecmo’s best game yet.
Re: Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2 Announced For Switch 2 And Switch
This is an awesome collection! I have fond memories of MGS4, and that ending music was top tier.
Re: Castlevania: Belmont's Curse Unveiled For Switch, Launching In 2026
Day. Freaking. One. This was the highlight of the SoP.
Re: Assassin's Creed Has "Overperformed" This Quarter, Says Ubisoft
I’ve yet to play this entry, but I think I’ll pick it up during a deep sale. I probably won’t finish it; these games are typically over saturated, but if it holds my attention for a while then I’ll be pleased.
Re: Yes, Elden Ring & The Duskbloods Are Definitely Still Coming To Switch 2 In 2026
I’m very curious about Duskbloods. It has all the typical traits of a From Soft game, but it being similar to Nightrein, and exclusively on Switch, is concerning. That said, I have faith in them—they very rarely disappoint. I also can’t wait to have Elden Ring on the go.
Re: Digital Foundry Talks Final Fantasy VII Rebirth's "Suitably Impressive" Switch 2 Trailer
I was blown away too; I didn’t think it was Switch 2 footage. I can’t wait to play this game portably.
Re: Poll: What Review Score Would You Give Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined?
@The-Chosen-one Waiting for what reviews? The reviews have already been out.
Re: Review: Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties (Switch 2) - Maybe It's Time To Take A Break
I’m glad I canceled my preorder, but it’s disappoint to see a successful franchise have a huge miss, when all of their games are typically great. I’ll stick with the original.
Re: Talking Point: Age Of Imprisonment Could Inspire Next Zelda Game, Say Devs, But What Does That Mean?
ToTK is one of my all time favorite games, but I would love to see a more traditional approach, though that is highly unlikely. Maybe the combat will be revamped, and providing neat skill sets and special moves. That said, we always seem to have this conversation — how can the next Zelda game be better than the last? It always seems like an impossible feat because we aren’t involved in the creative process, but it always surpasses everyone’s expectations. I don’t think we need to worry about the direction the games will go.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (7th February)
I’ve kind of been in a funk, so I think I’m going to take a brief hiatus from gaming until Resident Evil Requiem releases, or perhaps Yakuza 3 Kiwami, if the reviews are solid. I sincerely haven’t gone longer than a singular day playing something for over five years, but I think it’ll be good to step away.
I have, however, been reading a lot more than usual — I do it often, but as of late I’m more ferociously. My wife convinced me to read the Fourth Wing series. I was skeptical because, as much as I love fantasy, the steamy romance scenes aren’t my cup of tea, so I went in expecting to dislike the book(s). Several days later, I finished all three books. They were quite incredible. I’m now reading The Will of the Many by James Islington, and it’s fantastic. The world building has been incredible, and the setting has my imagination running wild.
Re: Nintendo Showcases Every Switch And Switch 2 Partner Direct Game In New Infographic
@TheExile285 Same here! There are numerous games I’ll be purchasing when they release.
Re: Tales Of Arise Comes To Switch 2 In May, Includes Beyond The Horizon DLC
This is one of the games I’ve been wanting to come to Switch 2 for a long time. I’m glad it finally is making its way — I’ll be double dipping for sure, especially since I haven’t played the DLC yet.
Re: Chrono Trigger, Xenogears Writer Is Releasing A Brand New RPG On Switch 2
I’ll keep my eye on this; hopefully it turns out well.
Re: Oblivion, Skyrim And Fallout Switch 2 Physicals Will All Be Code-In-A-Box, Bethesda Confirms
It’s kind of expected. Oblivion, Skyrim, and Fallout are essentially “old”. The people who want those games already have them considering how long they have been out. Indy, on the other hand, is new and fresh; they need to sell as many copies as possible. I understand that it sucks and doesn’t make much sense, but it is what it is.
Re: Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase February 2026: Every Announcement, Game Reveal, Trailer
If I had to rate this direct, it would be a B+, if not an A (or, a 9/10). Speaking only on the games that were shown rather than wasn’t, there was a huge lineup of games. Moreover, they are all releasing fairly soon: this spring and summer. There were no games that were slated for 2027. The majority of the games were for the first half of the year, and in that we are receiving FF7 Rebirth, Tales of Arise (a game not many is discussing but it’s worth mentioning - it’s great), Indiana Jones, Oblivion Remastered, Fallout 4, Orbitals, and more.
Sure, I was a tad disappointed by the lack of other games rumored to be coming to the console, or factually releasing, such as Elden Ring, Clair Obscur, Metaphor, and Mina The Hollower. I wish there were some news on those games. With that said, it’s almost all but certain those games will be coming, so for what the Partner Showcase presented, it was fantastic.
Of course, we are also getting RE Requiem and Pragmata day one, whilst also having FF7Remake, Dragon Quest 7, Yakuza 3, Caves of Qud, already released, or will be in a week. That goes to show me that developers are starting to see Switch 2’s true potential without compromising. And yes, this showcase was essentially about ports. I understand the dismay against that — I, too, want new games — but it’s a good indication where the mindset of developers are. We are going to start getting more day one releases in the future.
In my opinion, we are eating good.
Re: Digimon Story: Time Stranger Makes The Leap To Switch 1 & 2 This July
Nice to see the best mid Digimon game come to S2.
Re: PSA: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Is Surprisingly Cheap On The UK eShop Right Now
This will be a day one purchase for me. I think Remake was very well optimized, and if the trailer that was shown today as truly from the Switch 2 version, it appears to be following the same track.
Re: Granblue Fantasy: Relink - Endless Ragnarok Soars Onto Switch 2 In July
I’ve been tempted to play this on the PS5 for a long time, but I think I’ll wait until the Switch 2 version releases. I hear it’s a solid game, though I’m not familiar with the IP.
Re: Switch 2 Exclusive 'Orbitals' Mixes Anime Visuals And Co-Op Puzzle Platforming This Summer
It looks great, but I’m not keen on cooperative play so I’ll have to pass. I hope it does well, though!
Re: Super Bomberman Collection Gets A Surprise Shadow Drop On Switch 2
This was an announcement that pleasantly surprised me. I think I’ll buy this collection today, and mess around with it today at work on my lunch break.
Re: Oblivion Remastered Is Adventuring Onto Switch 2 This Year
I got the platinum for this on PS5 last year, but I’ll most definitely double dip if the performance is good. Such a classic game!
Re: Indiana Jones Cracks His Whip On Switch 2 On 12th May 2026
This looked great. This summer is going to be PAKCED with great games.
Re: Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition Launches 24th February for Switch 2
Looks good! I’ll be picking it up for sure. I haven’t played the Far Harbor DLC yet.
Re: Pragmata Lands April Release Date And A New Switch 2 Demo
I can’t wait for this one. It seems like a such unique blend of gameplay mechanics. And lately, Capcom just doesn’t miss, so I’m looking forward to playing this. I’m not much of a demo person, but I’ll probably check that out too!
Re: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Gets A Release Date For Switch 2
This is incredible, and a nice time to release! The FF7Remake has been blowing me away on Switch 2.
Re: Overwatch 2 Ditches The Number In Huge Overhaul, Switch 2 Version Announced
It’s about time!
Re: Talking Point: Nintendo Direct February Partner Predictions - What Do You Want To See?
@Citano I swear to god, if Lost Odyssey got ported over, I would die a very happy man.
Re: Talking Point: Nintendo Direct February Partner Predictions - What Do You Want To See?
I’d like to see: Metaphor ReFantazio, Clair Obscur, Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order/Survivor, Mina The Hollower, Elden Ring, FF7 Rebirth, and maybe a Switch 2 update for Kingdom Come Deliverance.
Re: Borderlands 4 Switch 2 Development Paused, According To Take-Two
Bummer. This would have been my first real Borderlands game. I played 1 & 2 briefly as a teen when they first released, but I never stayed with them. I suppose I could check it out on the PS5, but I’d much prefer portable play.
Re: Review: Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined (Switch 2) - A Fantastic Makeover & The Best-Looking DQ Ever
Glad to hear the game turned out just as good as I expected. I’m not distraught about the cut content, and from everything I’ve read, the game isn’t worse off for it. I’m looking forward to playing it in a couple of days.
Re: Feature: Nintendo Life eShop Selects (January 2026)
I’ve only played MIO although I own Dispatch. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with it, but I stopped 3/4th of the way through due to its difficulty and how unbalanced the game felt despite the assist options. I found Silksong easier and more balanced, and I 100%’ed that game.
Re: Upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 Games & Accessories For February & March 2026
Dragon Quest 7 and Resident Evil Requiem are day one purchases for me. I am considering Yakuza 3 so long as the game receives a patch for its graphics on day one like the developers have stated.
Re: Poll: What Nintendo Switch 2 Games Are You Most Excited For In 2026?
I’m excited for quite a bit of games. In no particular order, Dragon Quest 7, Mina The Hollower, Pragmata, Fire Emblem Fortune’s Weave, The Adventures of Elliot, and I’m going to assume FF7 Rebirth and Metaphor ReFantazio.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (31st January)
I don’t have much of an update from last weekend. I’m still playing Final Fantasy 7 Remake for the Switch 2. I’m approximately 65% through the story and absolutely enthralled despite beating the game multiple times on PS4/5. In fact, I may replay the game on PlayStation and get the platinum trophy since SqE essentially updated the game with “God mode” availability.
I have to say, though, after completing Rebirth and having more perspective on the story direction, it makes the first game even better.m due to its contextual gravity. You pick up subtle story beats, and character interaction and dialogue makes more sense. I think it is an impressive feat to have a sequel — Rebirth — that makes its predecessor —Remake — even better.
I can’t wait to see how Rebirth performs on the Switch 2. It’s remarkable how well optimized the Remake is, and how smooth the gameplay feels even though the frame-rate dips in a few cinematics. I’m not sure how it’s going to be pulled off considering how much larger it will be.
All of that said, these games feel tailored made for handheld and portability. I can’t imagine playing it any other way. It draws out a sense nostalgia, being a kid, staying up late when school was canceled because of snow and ice, and being a foot away from the television, my eyes glued to the screen. It’s the same reason why I have an affinity with Final Fantasy Tactics Advance for the GBA. It feels personal; intimate, and that’s when a franchise is elevated to GOAT status.
Re: Japanese Charts: Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade Emerges Victorious In A Quiet Week
Let’s hope these sales will actually meet Square Enix’s expectations for once.
Re: Tomodachi Life: Living The Dream Nintendo Direct: Every Announcement - How Would You Rate It?
It’s not my type of game and I don’t understand the appeal, but there is clearly an obvious fan base and I’m happy they get a new entry in the franchise.
Re: Review: Dispatch Nintendo Switch 2 Edition - A Cracking Superhero Caper, With Some Naughty Bits Covered Up
I had this preordered and ready to launch. I’ll be checking it out tonight after work; I can’t wait!
Re: Absolum's First Free Content Update Arrives Next Month
Awesome news! I haven’t played the game for a couple of months, but this will make me jump back in.
Re: Rumour: Switch Online GameCube Releases Might Have Been Leaked
I’m all for more additions to the Online library, but I would really love a remake for MP2. Nonetheless, I’ll take what I can get.
Re: Rumour: A Nintendo Direct May Be Coming As Soon As Next Week
@Haruki_NLI Exactly. It’s also a few weeks in January. People are freaking out as if nothing new is coming out for the console. Sure, the first party output may not be strong, but we just got FF7Remake, about to get Dragon Quest 7, Resident Evil Requiem, and Pragmata. To say the console is lacking is quite the ridiculous statement, particularly since we are also supposed to get a new Fire Emblem game this year.
Re: Kirby Air Riders Has Been Updated To Version 1.3.0, Here Are The Full Patch Notes
I know my comment is going to be off topic, but I wanted to say that Ball x Pit got updated today with its new content. I haven’t seen any sites mention it even though it’s a popular game.
On this side of things, I am glad to see this game get another update. I’m strongly considering buying it.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (24th January)
@Teksette Dang! Stay safe out there! And yeah, I was somehow magically blessed to have the entire weekend off work, and Monday and Tuesday as well. That never happens, but I’m grateful for it!
Re: Poll: What Review Score Would You Give Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade?
It’s an easy 9/10, and one of the best games for the entire Switch library.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (24th January)
@Teksette Same for me weather wise! In in Missouri.
Re: Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (24th January)
I picked up MIO: Memories In Orbit since it has been getting great reviews. I have to say, the reviews are in the mark — this game is awesome, but hard as hell.
I find the game to be quite excellent. There is a feeling of minimalism in a gorgeous, cell-shaded world. There are some moments with the soundtrack that brings me back to how I felt playing Death Stranding 1 & 2 because of how quiet it can be. That is an odd comparison, but very fitting.
The environments are all unique, although very similar to Hollow Knight and the Ori games. While it is familiar, it provides its own spin on how to traverse the world, and the dangers it presents. Speaking of, the platforming can be demanding, but the satisfaction you obtain by completing an obstacle is so rewarding. Just be prepared for a lot of trial and error.
The sense of progression is paced very well. There is always a stream of new abilities, with a plethora of combat modifiers and enhancements that can help during tough situations. Some of the unmissable abilities do seem useless, particularly the dodge mechanic. It essentially turns you invisible for a short period of time, but since most enemies are robotic in nature, there attacks are delayed and will hit you once you finish the dodge.
There are two issues I have with the game. Save points are very sparse, and the idea of backtracking can be really frustrating. You can easily die in two hits, and you’re going to because you’ll encounter new enemies with unique skill sets that you’re unlikely to know at the start. It’s basically trial by fire. You’ll eventually unlock shortcuts and abilities - a trope with the genre - but even then it can be a hassle.
The other quibble I have, albeit minor, are the boss fights and enemies. They are challenging, but not too demanding. However, they do tend to be repetitive in their aesthetic design. The fights themselves are varied, but when they tend to look the same they all feel disjointed. There are some enemies and bosses that have a big difficult spike — I’m looking at you Atmos — and it can be irritating where they spawn.
With that said, the accessibility options are fantastic. I’ve yet to use them, but they do assimilate problems where people struggle during difficult games such as Silksong. For example, there is an assist option that allows you to regain one health node when standing still. These won’t stack, so it’s a little reprieve from automatic death. Eroded Bosses will make boss fights weaker upon each failed attempt. If you combine that with some of the combat modifiers, it will help immensely.
Overall, I find MIO: Memories In Orbit to be a standout indie for the beginning of 2026.
I’m also playing Final Fantasy 7 Remake for the Switch 2. I’ve beaten this game three times for the PS4 & PS5, but I couldn’t resist the option for portability. I have been playing the game exclusively in handheld, and the game looks and runs silky smooth, with frame rate only dipping periodically in cutscenes. It feels like a dream to have a game like this I can take on the go.
Re: The Fable Reboot Is Reportedly "Under Consideration" For Switch 2
@Axecon I think it has always been considered a reboot.
Re: Round Up: The Reviews Are In For Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade On Switch 2
FF7R on Switch 1 is a great port, seemingly, and $40.00 is a really good deal for the quality of the title. It just goes to show that big budget games can work given the time and care. Cyberpunk 2077 and now this is a perfect example.
Re: Review: Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (Switch 2) - A Big, Bold Reimagining, And A First-Class Port
@progx That’s what I meant. I’ll edit my comment lol.
Re: Review: Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (Switch 2) - A Big, Bold Reimagining, And A First-Class Port
Do I own this game on PS4 & PS5? Yes. Am I buying it for Switch 2 and plan on beating the game for the 4th time? Absolutely. This was a great review! I’m beyond excited — and playing this portably is a dream come true.
Re: Ball x Pit's First Free Content Update Bounces Onto Switch Next Week
And back to the bounce pit I go. This should be fun.